Some of East Tennessee’s most beautiful places are hiding in plain sight. The Holston River is one of them.

Winding through the countryside and into Knoxville, the Holston offers peaceful scenery, fishing, paddling, walking trails and opportunities to enjoy nature without traveling far from home. Whether you’re looking for a quiet afternoon beside the water or an adventure with a kayak, this river has something to offer.

The Holston begins near Kingsport, where its North and South forks meet, and travels approximately 136 miles before joining the French Broad River near Knoxville to form the Tennessee River. Along the way, it passes farmland, wooded hillsides and communities whose histories are closely connected to the water.

Holston River Park: A little something for everyone

One of the easiest places to enjoy the river is Holston River Park, located at 3300 Holston Hills Road in East Knoxville.

This 44-acre park offers two fishing piers, a canoe and kayak launch, picnic shelters, playgrounds, soccer fields and open spaces perfect for spending an afternoon outdoors.

The Holston River Greenway provides approximately 1.8 miles of paved trails, while a natural-surface trail winds through a wooded area filled with oak and beech trees. Visitors can walk, bicycle, push a stroller or simply find a comfortable spot to enjoy the river.

There’s even a fenced PetSafe dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, making this a destination for four-legged family members.

McBee Ferry: A connection to the past

Near Strawberry Plains, McBee Ferry Landing offers another opportunity to experience the Holston River.

The area recalls a time when ferries were essential transportation links between communities. Today, the landing provides a simpler way to reach the water, particularly for fishing and launching small watercraft.

The surrounding countryside, riverbanks and historic setting make this an interesting stop for those who enjoy discovering places connected to East Tennessee’s past.

Nance Ferry: Fishing and peaceful scenery

Farther upstream near Blaine, Nance Ferry is a small river access point popular with anglers and paddlers.

The Holston below Cherokee Dam is known for its trout fishing, particularly rainbow and brown trout. The cooler water released from the dam helps support this fishery, although conditions vary with the seasons.

Nance Ferry is a more rustic destination than a developed city park, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Cherokee Dam: Where water and recreation meet

Near Jefferson City, Cherokee Dam offers another perspective on the Holston.

Completed during World War II, the dam created Cherokee Reservoir, a popular destination for boating, fishing and outdoor recreation. Public recreation areas around the reservoir provide opportunities to enjoy the scenery, picnic and access the water.

It’s also a reminder of the important role the Holston plays in providing electricity, managing flooding and supporting communities throughout East Tennessee.

A river with stories to tell

The Holston has witnessed centuries of East Tennessee history, from Cherokee communities and early settlement to ferries, farms and modern recreation.

One particularly interesting landmark is Boyds’ Island, visible from the Holston Hills Road area. The island is associated with the Boyd family, including Pattie Boyd, one of Knoxville’s pioneering newspaperwomen, who began writing for the Knoxville Journal in the 1880s.

The island itself is not a designated public recreation destination, but its history adds another layer of interest to a visit along the river.

Before heading to the water

Anyone planning to kayak, canoe or fish below Cherokee Dam should check the Tennessee Valley Authority’s water release information before heading out. Water levels and currents can change quickly when electricity is being generated.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, Holston River Park offers an easy introduction to the river’s beauty without ever stepping into the water.

Sometimes an afternoon close to home is all we need to remember why East Tennessee is such a special place to live. The Holston River has been here all along, quietly inviting us to slow down, explore and enjoy the scenery.

OUR TOWN. YOUR NEWS.

Stories that connect our community. Read. Respond. Share.

This column is sponsored by Wallace Real Estate.

Enjoyed this article? Read more Close to Home columns by KnoxTNToday.

Follow KnoxTNToday on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Get all KnoxTNToday articles in one place with our free newsletter. Comments may be sent to news@knoxtntoday.com.